Legal Focus

Do you know all the essential information about the students on your bus? Do the school districts you serve share IEP information about individual students? Do you know the dangers of transporting students without knowing the details of their special needs?
In 2006, a substitute driver was instructed by the school district to have all students jump from the back of the bus in a mandatory bus evacuation drill. A twelve year old, who suffers from medical conditions making him more susceptible to injury, jumped from the back of the bus sustaining multiple leg bone fractures. Neither the school district nor the parents informed the school bus contractor of the student’s condition. The injuries were serious and litigation ensued.
Many school districts do not fully disclose all health and personal information of the students on your buses believing they are protecting student privacy. However, lack of information can comprise your ability to care for the students riding your buses. You should know that school bus contractors have a legal right to information about students on your buses. Outlined in the article below is information about Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and legislation regarding your right to know pertinent information about the students riding on your buses.

Contact Us to read the Full Article.